Dosage regimen of an s1p receptor modulator

ABSTRACT

S1P receptor modulators are administered following a dosage regimen providing a positive benefit-risk profile.

The present invention relates to a dosage regimen of an S1P receptormodulator or agonist in the course of the treatment of patientssuffering from an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, forexample multiple sclerosis (MS).

Multiple sclerosis is the chief cause of neurological disability inyoung adults and the most common demyelinating disorder of the centralnervous system. Available therapies such as interferon-β and glatirameracetate have modest efficacy and marginal effects on the progression ofdisability. These biological agents are administered parenterally andare associated, e.g., with injection site reactions and pyreticsymptoms, such as flu-like symptoms. Therefore, there is a strongmedical need for a safe and effective oral treatment of multiplesclerosis.

Of those people with multiple sclerosis who receive treatment, asignificant number continue to experience disease activity clinically orexperience side effects that include flu-like symptoms, immediatepost-injection reactions and injection site reactions. As a result, asubstantial population of patients are untreated, including many withactive disease. These MS patients have either tried an existing therapybut discontinued due to intolerance, adverse effects, or perceived lackof efficacy or have not started any therapy because of their concernwith adverse effects, fear of self-injection, fear of needles, or beliefthat currently available options are not effective enough to warranttrial. Thus, there is a significant unmet need for effective newtherapies in MS, which limit or reduce the possible adverse events orside effects.

S1P receptor modulators are compounds which signal as agonists at one ormore sphingosine1-phosphate receptors, e.g. S1P1 to S1P5. Agonistbinding to a S1P receptor may e.g. result in dissociation ofintracellular heterotrimeric G-proteins into Gα-GTP and Gβγ-GTP, and/orincreased phosphorylation of the agonist-occupied receptor andactivation of downstream signaling pathways/kinases.

S1P receptor modulators are valuable compounds for the manufacture ofmedication for the treatment of various conditions in mammals,especially in human beings. For example, efficacy in transplantation hasbeen demonstrated in rats (skin, heart, liver, small bowel), dogs(kidney), and monkeys (kidney) models. Due to their immune-modulatingpotency, S1P receptor modulators are also useful for the treatment ofinflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Treating such diseases usuallyrequires prolonged taking of medication, and maintaining the adequatedrug regimen over time.

Oral fingolimod is the first compound in the new class of therapeuticscalled sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators. Fingolimod isbelieved to reduce the number of lymphocytes circulating in the bloodstream by reversibly trapping a proportion of them in the lymph nodes.Consequently, the number of activated lymphocytes reaching the brain isdecreased, resulting in reduced inflammatory destruction. This is a newmechanism of action for MS.

FTY720 efficacy in the treatment of multiple sclerosis has been shown inhumans (e.g. as described in “FTY720 therapy exerts differential effectson T cell subsets in multiple sclerosis”. Mehling M, et al., Neurology.2008 Oct. 14; 71(16):1261-7; and ° Oral fingolimod (FTY720) forrelapsing multiple sclerosis”. Kappos L, Antel J, Comi G, Montalban X,O'Connor P, Polman C H, Haas T, Kom A A, Karlsson G, Radue E W; FTY720D2201 Study Group. N Engl J. Med. 2006 Sep. 14; 355(11):1124-40.).

Administration of a S1P receptor modulator, such as fingolimod mayinduce adverse events, such as a transient reduction of the heart rateand cardiac conduction at treatment initiation. In particular it hasbeen described that administration of 1.25 mg of FTY720 may induce adecrease in heart rate of approximately 8 beets/min (“FTY720:Placebo-Controlled Study of the Effect on Cardiac Rate and Rhythm inHealthy Patients”, Robert Schmouder, Denise Serra, Yibin Wang, John M.Kovarik, John DiMarco, Thomas L. Hunt and Marie-Claude Bastien. J. Clin.Pharmacol. 2006; 46; 895.).

Because of such a possible adverse event, administration of the compoundto the patients may have to be made under full and constant medicalcontrol, in order to check that the cardiac rhythm is maintained at anacceptable level and no high degree atrioventricular block occurs.Patients may have to stay in hospitals which complicate the treatmentand increase the costs of treatment. Occurrence of adverse events duringa drug treatment may induce patient hospitalization or prolongation ofexisting hospitalization. Such possible events may also cause thepatients to interrupt their treatment, change the recommended dosingregimen on their own or take the medication on an irregular basis,without any medical support or recommendation for doing that. While itis paramount for treating inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, such asfor example multiple sclerosis, that the adequate medication is takenover a long period of time, sometimes during the whole life of thepatient, and the adequate drug regimen is kept over such a long periodof time.

Therefore there is a need to reduce or manage the possible adverseevents which may be generated by administration of such a S1P receptormodulator, while administering a dosage which is adequate to treat orprevent the disease for which the compound is administered during therequired period of treatment.

More specifically, there is a need to provide an efficient treatment fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, such asmultiple sclerosis, for a large population of multiple sclerosispatients, including patients who could be more exposed or more sensitiveto said possible adverse events, patients who were never treated ordiagnosed for an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder

There is furthermore a need to ameliorate patient compliance.

BRIEF DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Surprisingly it has been found that by administering a S1P receptormodulator or agonist, such as fingolimod, according to the specificdosage regimen or method of treatment of the invention, it is possibleto treat the patient efficiently while controlling, reducing orabolishing the possible adverse events, e.g. side effects, which may beassociated with administration of such a compound.

A further benefit is that the dosing regimen and methods of treatment ofthe invention permit to administer a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,such as fingolimod, to patients who otherwise may have been reluctant ornot could not have been instructed to take that medication. Inparticular they permit to treat patients suffering from an inflammatoryor autoimmune disease or disorder, such as multiple sclerosis, for whichthe ratio risk/benefit may otherwise be less favourable. Such patientsare for example patients susceptible to or suffering from one or moredisease or disorders affecting the heart or heart rythme, respiratoryfunctions, eyes, hepatic functions. This also concerns patients thathave undergone an interruption or treatment holiday in the maintenancedosage regime e.g. a holiday of greater than 10 days.

Furthermore the dosing regimen and methods of treatment of the inventionis applicable for patients who were already under treatment for aninflammatory or autoimmune or disease, for example under treatment formultiple sclerosis, as well as patients who were never treated or werenot diagnosed for an inflammatory or autoimmune or disease before takinga S1P receptor modulator or agonist.

The dosage regimen of the present invention is a regimen for a S1Preceptor modulator or agonist therapy, which enables administration of atherapeutic dosage range of the S1P receptor to be achieved withcontrolled or minimal side effects, which could otherwise have beenpossibly associated with S1P receptor modulator therapy.

Another benefit of the present invention is to provide an therapeuticregimen for an inflammatory or autoimmune or disease, such as multiplesclerosis, which can be personalized, e.g. adapted to the specificprofile of the patient to be treated and/or to the state of the diseasein this patient, in such as way that that the disease is treated (or thedisease severity is reduced), while the adverse events which couldotherwise have been associated with administering said S1P receptormodulator or agonist are controlled, reduced, or abolished. For example,therapeutic regimen of the present invention may be personalized in viewof the other diseases or disorders the patient could be affected with,the other medication he could be taken, e.g. depending of whether he issuffering from a heart disease or disorder.

S1P Receptor Modulators or Agonists

According to the invention, specific S1P receptor modulators of theinvention are 2-amino-2-tetradecyl-1,3-propanediol. An example of S1Preceptor modulator is fingolimod (FTY720), i.e.2-amino-2-[2-(4-octylphenyl)ethyl]propane-1,3-diol in free form or in apharmaceutically acceptable salt form, e.g. the hydrochloride, as shown:

Another specific S1P receptor modulator of the invention is thephosphorylated derivative of FTY720, also referred to asfingolimod-phosphate, as shown:

Preferably, the S1P receptor modulator or agonist of the invention, e.g.fingolimod in free form, in a pharmaceutically acceptable salt form orfingolimod-phosphate, is administered orally.

Dosage Regimen

As previously stated, the present invention provides a new dosageregimen and method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease ordisorder in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to saidpatient a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, such as fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, in such a way that the disease is treated orthe disease severity is reduced, while the adverse events possiblyassociated with administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonistare controlled, limited, reduced or abolished. For example there isprovided a method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease ordisorder in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to saidpatient a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, such fingolimod (FTY720), aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, in such as way that the symptoms of the disease are reduced orabolished while the adverse events possibly associated withadministration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist are controlled,limited, reduced or abolished.

According to the invention there is provided a method for administeringFTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof, to a patient in need thereof preferably refers to a methodfor treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, limitingthe symptoms associated thereof or the progression thereof, e.g.multiple sclerosis, in a patient in need thereof. In particular itrefers to a method for treating RRMS, limiting the symptoms associatedthereof or the progression thereof in a patient in need thereof.

According to the present invention the terms ‘treatment’ or “treat”refer to both prophylactic or preventive treatment as well as curativeor disease-modifying treatment, including treatment of patients at riskof contracting the disease or disorder, or suspected to have contractedthe disease or disorder, as well as patients who are ill or have beendiagnosed as suffering from the disease or disorder.

Autoimmune diseases or disorders according to the invention arepreferably chronic long term diseases, e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS), forexample relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) or primaryprogressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS), e.g. RRMS. MS takes severalforms, with new symptoms occurring either in discrete attacks (relapsingforms) or slowly accumulating over time (progressive forms).

The dosing regimens and methods of treatment according to the presentinvention are particularly adapted for multiple sclerosis, e.g. RRMS.

As herein defined, treating multiple sclerosis refers to, but is notlimited to, reducing the frequency of clinical exacerbations or delayingthe accumulation of physical disability induced by multiple sclerosis.It may also refer to limiting the symptoms of the disease.

As herein defined, symptoms or disorders associated with multiplesclerosis encompass neurological symptoms, physical and cognitivedisability and neuropsychiatric disorders.

As herein defined, adverse event refers to any adverse change in healththat occurs to a patient receiving a treatment or within a specifiedperiod of time after the treatment has been completed. Controlling theadverse events refers to limiting the extension, outcome, consequencesor impact of such events in such a way that the patient's health is nota risk, or the treatment can be continued without worsening the overallhealth of the patient. The adverse events are not necessarily related tothe medication itself, they may also be related to the inflammatory orautoimmune disease or disorder for which the patient is treated oranother disease or disorder that the patient is further affected with.

According to the invention reduction of the adverse events refers to thereduction of the events, e.g. of side-effects, to a level that isacceptable to the patient safety, e.g. which does not require specifictreatment and/or specific medical care, hospitalization or medicalmonitoring. For example reduction of the adverse events refers to thereduction of the events to a level that is acceptable for the patientcompliance.

According to the invention limitation of the adverse events refers tolimitation of the number or occurrence of adverse events, e.g. ofside-effects, in a patient, to a number or occurrence which isacceptable to the patient, e.g. which does not require specifictreatment and/or specific medical care, hospitalization or medicalmonitoring. For example limitation of the adverse events refers tolimitation of the number or occurrence of adverse events to a number oroccurrence that is acceptable for the patient safety and/or compliance.

The monitoring of possible adverse events may be done as describedherein above. For example it may be done by ophthalmic examination,dermatologic examination, pulmonary function tests, chest X-ray and/orCT, Holter monitoring, and/or echocardiography. In a specific embodimentof the invention, the monitoring and reporting of adverse eventscomprises the monitoring and reporting of bradycardia, syncope orpre-syncope, serious infectious, liver toxicity, and macular edema.

As herein defined, a patient treated with fingolimod (FTY720) refers toa patient receiving fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof(i.e. fingolimod-phosphate) or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorderaccording to the invention, e.g. MS, e.g. RRMS.

As herein defined, a patient in need of prescribing fingolimod refers toa patient suffering from an inflammatory or autoimmune disease ordisorder according to the invention, e.g. a MS patient.

Patients treated with fingolimod (FTY720) and the patients in need ofprescribing fingolimod may be patients who have never received treatmentfor an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, such as patientswho have never received a treatment for treating or preventing MS, aswell as patients who previously received one or more treatment for aninflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, for example whopreviously received one or more treatment for MS.

The effectiveness of the S1P modulator of the invention in treatingmultiple sclerosis may be evaluated by medical standards and criteriaknown to the skilled person. For example, it can be evaluated throughannual relapse rate of multiple sclerosis.

For example, the dosage of the S1P receptor modulator or agonist of theinvention can be considered as efficient for treating the disease orreducing the symptoms associated thereof, e.g. for treating multiplesclerosis, when the relapse rate is decreased by more than 45%, e.g.more than 50%, e.g. more than 60%.

In another embodiment effectiveness of the S1P receptor modulator oragonist of the invention in treating multiple sclerosis is evaluatedthrough the disability progression, e.g. according to the KurtzkeExpanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). The Kurtzke Expanded DisabilityStatus Scale (EDSS) is a method of quantifying disability in multiplesclerosis. The EDSS quantifies disability in eight Functional Systems(FS) and allows neurologists to assign a Functional System Score (FSS)in each of these. For example, the dosage of the S1P receptor modulatoror agonist of the invention can be'considered as efficient for treatingthe disease or reducing the symptoms associated thereof, e.g. fortreating multiple sclerosis, when progression of the patient disabilityis delayed by at least 25%, e.g. by at least 30%, e.g. by at least 32%.

The effectiveness of the dosing regimen of the invention may also beevaluated by measuring brain lesions, e.g. by Magnetic Resonance Imaging(RMI) scans.

Monitoring

The present invention provides a dosing regimen and a method fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder in a patientin need thereof, comprising administering to said patient atherapeutically effective amount of a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,wherein said method comprises the steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of time after        the first administration of said S1P receptor modulator or        agonist, and    -   ii) optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P        receptor modulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment        regimen thereof and/or administering a second drug which        mitigates said possible adverse events.

Such a dosing regimen is particularly adapted for administeringfingolimod, e.g. in patient suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Furthermore there is provided a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g.FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof, for use in the treatment of an inflammatory or anautoimmune disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein saidtreatment comprises the steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of time after        the first administration of said S1P receptor modulator or        agonist, and    -   ii) optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P        receptor modulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment        regimen thereof and/or administering a second drug which        mitigates said possible adverse events.

In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides FTY720, aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. the hydrocloride salt of FTY720, for use in the treatmentof multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment comprises the steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of time after        the first administration of FTY720, a phosphate derivative        thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and    -   ii) optionally interrupting the administration of FTY720, a        phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable        salt thereof, and/or modifying the treatment regimen thereof,        and/or administering a second drug which mitigates said possible        adverse events.

The present inventions further pertains to a S1P receptor modulator oragonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in a method fortreating an inflammatory or an autoimmune disease or disorder, e.g.multiple sclerosis, wherein said method comprises the steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of time after        the first administration of said S1P receptor modulator or        agonist, and    -   ii) optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P        receptor modulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment        regimen thereof and/or administering a second drug which        mitigates said possible adverse events.

In a specific embodiment, the present invention pertains to FTY720, aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof for use in a method for the treatment of multiple sclerosis,wherein said treatment comprises the steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of time after        the first administration of said S1P receptor modulator or        agonist, and    -   ii) optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P        receptor modulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment        regimen thereof and/or administering a second drug which        mitigates said possible adverse events.

According to the invention, the action taken on step ii) depends on theresults obtained under step i).

When the S1P receptor modulator or agonist is selected from fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, the step of modifying the treatment regimen mayconsist of administering a daily dosage of the drug that is lower thanabout 0.5 mg and then increasing the dosage up to a daily dosage ofabout 0.5 mg. The daily dosage of the drug may then be increasedstepwise, e.g. by titration. It may also consist of administering adaily dosage of the drug higher than 0.5 mg, e.g. a daily dosage ofabout 1.0 mg or about 1.25 mg.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, e.g. when the S1P receptormodulator or agonist is selected from fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphatederivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, thestep of modifying the treatment regimen may consist of increasing theperiod of time between two consecutive administrations of themedication.

According to the invention, there is provided a patient monitoring, i.e.a specific monitoring of patients treated with a S1P receptor modulatoror agonist, such as fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereofor a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in order to control,limit or abolish the possible adverse events, wherein said monitoring isperformed before and/or during administration of the medication.

The patient monitoring of the invention comprises

-   -   a) monitoring infections or infestations, e.g. viral infections,        throughout administering said S1P receptor modulator or agonist,        and/or    -   b) performing an ophthalmologic examination.

The patient monitoring may further comprise one or more steps of

-   -   c) monitoring the heart rate of the patient at least during the        first hours after the first administration of said S1P receptor        modulator or agonist,    -   d) observing the patient during the first hours after the first        administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, to        monitor the heart rate of the patient,    -   e) performing liver function tests,    -   f) performing dermatological examinations,    -   g) performing pulmonary functions tests.

The patient monitoring may further comprise one or more steps of

-   -   h) determining complete blood counting (CBC),    -   i) lymphocytes countingand/or recording of blood key parameters,    -   j) monitoring and/or recording of vital signs, e.g. heart rate,        blood pressure, e.g. arterial blood pressure,    -   k) monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders,    -   l) monitoring and/or recording of other adverse events or        side-effects.

The invention also provides a dosing regimen and a method ofcontrolling, reducing, or abolishing the possible adverse eventsassociated with treating a patient suffering from an inflammatory orautoimmune disease or disorder with a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,comprising administering to said patient a therapeutically effectiveamount of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, wherein said methodcomprises i) a patient monitoring as defined herein above, and

ii) optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P receptormodulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment regimen thereof.

In one embodiment of the invention, the patient monitoring of theinvention may comprise one or more of the following steps, optionallyall the steps of,

-   -   complete blood counting (CBC),    -   lymphocytes counting,    -   analysis of liver enzymes,    -   monitoring and/or recording of vital signs, e.g. heart rate,        blood pressure, e.g. arterial blood pressure,    -   testing history of viral infection or viral serology, e.g.        regarding chickenpox,    -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   dermatological examinations,    -   ophthalmologic examinations,    -   examinations of pulmonary function,    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders,    -   monitoring and/or recording of blood key parameters,    -   monitoring and/or recording of liver function tests,    -   monitoring and/or recording of other adverse events or        side-effects.

Preferably, the patient monitoring of the invention comprises one ormore of the following steps, optionally all the steps of:

-   -   complete blood counting (CBC),    -   analysis of liver enzymes,    -   ophthalmologic examinations, and    -   testing history of viral infection or viral serology, e.g.        regarding chickenpox,    -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infection.

The patient monitoring of the invention may further comprise

-   -   establishing an electrocardiogram (ECG), e.g. at starting        administration with the medication, and/or    -   vaccinate the patient before starting administration, e.g.        against varicella zoster virus (VZV).

As herein defined, the patient monitoring of the invention may compriseor more of the above described monitoring steps.

In one embodiment of the invention, the patient monitoring comprises thesteps of

-   -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   performing ophthalmologic examinations,        and optionally further comprises the steps of    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders for specific        category of patients, and/or    -   performing dermatological examinations.

In another embodiment of the invention, the patient monitoring comprisesthe steps of

-   -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   ophthalmologic examinations,    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders. e.g. for        specific category of patients,    -   liver function tests;        and optionally further comprises the steps of    -   dermatological examinations.

In yet a further embodiment of the invention, the patient monitoringcomprises the steps of

-   -   monitoring the heart rate of the patient,    -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   performing ophthalmologic examinations,        and optionally further comprises the steps of    -   performing dermatological examinations.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the patient monitoringcomprises the steps of

-   -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   performing an ophthalmologic examination within the first 1 to        10 after starting administration,    -   observing patients for at least 6 hours after the first dose        administration, and optionally further comprises the steps of    -   dermatological examinations.

The patient monitoring may further comprise a step of monitoring and/orrecording of liver function tests in case patients develop symptomssuggestive of hepatic dysfunction.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a methodof prescribing fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to a patient in need thereof,in such a way as to limit the possible adverse events before of duringadministration of fingolimod, wherein said method comprises the patientmonitoring as herein above described.

For example the method of prescribing fingolimod may comprise one ormore of the following steps:

-   -   performing lymphocyte counting,    -   monitoring and/or recording of vital signs, e.g. blood pressure,        e.g. arterial blood pressure,    -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   performing dermatological examinations,    -   performing ophthalmologic examinations,    -   performing examinations of pulmonary function,    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders,    -   monitoring and/or recording of blood key parameters, e.g. level        of serum ALT,    -   performing liver function tests,    -   monitoring and/or recording of other adverse events or        side-effects, and        wherein each of said steps is performed for a specific period of        time before and/or during the period of administering the drug.

The specific and regular monitoring of the treated patients may consistof one or more of the following steps

-   -   performing lymphocyte counting,    -   monitoring and/or recording of vital signs, e.g. blood pressure,        e.g. arterial blood pressure,    -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections,    -   performing dermatological examinations,    -   performing ophthalmologic examinations,    -   performing examinations of pulmonary function,    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders,    -   monitoring and/or recording of blood key parameters, e.g. level        of serum ALT,    -   performing liver function tests,    -   monitoring and/or recording of other adverse events or        side-effects, and        wherein said steps are performed for a specific period of time        before and/or during the period of administering the drug.

Each step may be performed as further explained below.

Preferably, the patient monitoring may consist of one or more of thefollowing steps:

-   -   monitoring and/or recording of infections or infestations, e.g.        viral infections, during FTY720 therapy,    -   ophthalmologic examinations as herein defined,    -   monitoring and/or recording of cardiac disorders for specific        category of patients,    -   liver function tests in case patients develop symptoms        suggestive of hepatic dysfunction,        and optionally further comprises the steps of    -   dermatological examinations.

The different steps the patient monitoring of the invention areperformed at a specific period of time after administration of the firstdose.

These steps can be performed as described herein.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, the treated patients aremonitored under supervision of medical doctors for a specific period oftime after the first dose administration, for the first 1 to 10 hoursafter the first administration of the S1P receptor modulator or agonist,e.g. fingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, for at least 6 hours after the first doseadministration.

According to the invention, one or more of these steps, e.g. monitoringand/or recording of cardiac disorders, are performed at least 4 hoursafter the first dose administration, e.g. at least for 6 hours after thefirst dose administration, or at least 8 hours after the first doseadministration, e.g. 3 to 8 hours after the first dose administration,e.g. 4 to 6 hours after the first dose administration, e.g. 4 to 6 hoursafter the first dose administration. Preferably monitoring and/orrecording of cardiac disorders are performed about 6 hours after thefirst dose administration The step of monitoring and/or recording ofcardiac disorders may consist of observing patients during that periodof time after the first dose administration, e.g. during at least 4hours after the first dose administration, e.g. at least for 6 hoursafter the first dose administration, or at least 8 hours after the firstdose administration.

According to the invention, the cardiac disorders which are monitoredand/or recorded comprise but are not limited to bradycardia andhigh-grade AV block.

According to the invention, the infections which are recorded ormonitored are for example viral infections, e.g. varicella zoster virus(VZV), influenza viral infection, herpes viral infection, lowerrespiratory tract infection, e.g. bronchitis and pneumonia.

In an embodiment of the invention, the monitoring of infections orinfestations is performed within the first three months after the firstdose administration, e.g. within the first two months after the firstclose administration. In another embodiment of the invention, themonitoring of infections or infestations is performed throughoutadministration of the medication.

Prior to starting administering the S1P receptor modulator or agonist,the patient may be tested for history of infections, e.g. viralinfection, in particular chickenpox. In case the searched serology isnegative, the patient may be vaccinated, e.g. against varicella zostervirus or influenza virus.

The monitoring or recording of infections or infestations, e.g. viralinfections, may be performed with medical techniques available, forexample through complete blood counting (CBC) and/or lymphocytescounting.

According to the invention, the ophthalmologic examination preferablycomprises the checking and/or monitoring of disturbances in visualacuity, e.g. appearance of macular edema.

In a specific embodiment of the invention, eye examinations include atleast one of eye history, visual acuity, dilated ophthalmoscopy, OpticalCoherence Tomography (OCT), evaluation of the fundus. Such examinationsare preferably performed by an ophthalmologist.

According to the invention, ophthalmologic examination may be performedafter initiating the administration with S1P receptor modulator oragonist, e.g. after commencing FTY720 therapy, e.g. within the first 1to 12 months, e.g. 2 to 10 months, e.g. 2 to 6 months, e.g. 2 to 5months, e.g. 3 to 4 months. Additional ophthalmologic examinations maybe performed as needed based on patient symptoms, e.g. at intervalsdetermined by the ophthalmologist.

According to the invention, the ophthalmologic examination maycomprising the steps of

-   -   1) identifying the eye diseases history of the patient to be        treated before commencing the treatment with FTY720,    -   2) having ophthalmologic examinations performed as herein above        mentioned, e.g. 3 to 4 months after commencing the treatment        with FTY720, preferably by an ophthalmologist, and optionally    -   3) having additional ophthalmologic examinations performed based        on patient symptoms, e.g. at intervals determined by the        ophthalmologist.

Ophthalmologic examination may also be performed before starting theadministration with S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. beforestarting FTY720 therapy. This embodiment is particularly adapted forspecific patients categories, for example in case of patients who havean eyes disease or disorder, and/or history of diabetes or uveitis.

According to the invention, the dermatological examination may comprisethe checking of appearance e.g. of neoplasms, skin malignancies,melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma. Dermatologicalscreening may be performed prior to, or shortly after initiation oftherapy. In a specific embodiment of the invention, dermatologicalscreenings are performed annually in patient receiving the S1P receptormodulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

Dermatological screening may be performed by a physician, e.g. adermatologist. In another embodiments, such screening is performed morefrequently, e.g. by the patient himself.

According to the invention, the examinations of pulmonary function maybe performed by spirometry, pulmonary function tests, e.g. FEV1, FVC,FEF25-75%, DLCO, diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide, or chest highresolution computed tomography (HRCT).

In a specific embodiment of the invention the pulmonary function test(PFT) is performed a few hours to a few days after the firstadministration, for example at the day of the first administration, forexample from 2 to 12 hours after the first drug administration, forexample from 2 to 8 hours after the first drug administration, forexample from 2 to 6 hours after the first administration, for example at6-hour after the first administration. A second PFT may be performed afew days after the first administration, for example from 2 to 10 daysafter the first drug administration, for example from 3 to 8 days firstdrug administration, for example abut a week after the first drugadministration.

In a specific embodiment of the invention the level of liver enzyme,e.g. serum ALT, is evaluated at initiation of therapy and optionallyperiodically thereafter. Continuous evaluation is particularly adaptedin case of patients who develop symptoms suggestive of hepaticdysfunction.

According to the invention, the liver function tests may be performedfor specific category of patients, e.g. patients who develop symptomssuggestive of hepatic dysfunction, e.g. nausea, vomiting, abdominalpain, anorexia, or jaundice.

According to the invention, monitoring and/or recording of liverfunction tests may comprise any one of the steps of

-   -   1) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in the        patient to be treated before the first administration of the S1P        receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate        derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt        thereof, and administering the first dose only if alanine        aminotransferase (ALT) level is not more than 2 times the upper        limit of the normal range (ULN),    -   2) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in the        patient under therapy, and discontinue the therapy in patients        experiencing jaundice or elevation of liver enzyme is more than        5 times the upper limit of the normal range (ULN).

The patient monitoring of the invention may comprise a step of observingthe patient for the first 1 to 10 hours after the first administrationof the S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. fingolimod, a phosphatederivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g.the first 2 to 8 hours after the first administration, e.g. the first 3to 9 hours after the first administration, e.g. the first 2 to 8 hoursafter the first administration, e.g. the first 4 to 7 hours after thefirst administration, e.g. the first 6 hours, e.g. the first 5 hours,e.g. the first 4 hours after the first administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist, e.g. fingolimod, a phosphate derivativethereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. For example, thepatient monitoring of the invention may comprise a step of observing thepatient at least 2 hours after the first administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist, e.g. fingolimod, a phosphate derivativethereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. at least 4hours after the first administration, e.g. at least 6 hours after thefirst administration.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder in a patientin need thereof, comprising administering to said patient atherapeutically effective amount of S1P receptor modulator or agonist,wherein specific parameters of the patient are checked before initiatingsaid treatment, and if necessary, the treatment regimen is adaptedand/or a second drug which mitigates the adverse events which couldpossibly occur.

The invention further pertains to a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, for use in a method of treating an inflammatoryor an autoimmune disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, whereinsaid method comprises the steps of checking specific parameters of thepatient before initiating said treatment, and if necessary adapting thetreatment regimen thereof and/or administering a second drug whichmitigates the adverse events which could possibly occur.

Said parameters are selected from signs of infections or infestations(e.g. viral infections), visual acuity, presence of eye disease, liverenzymes, blood pressure, blood analysis (e.g. complete blood count),electrocardiogram (ECG), pulmonary function, presence of skin disease ordisorder, and liver function.

In a specific embodiment, these parameters are selected from signs ofinfections or infestations (e.g. viral infections), visual acuity, liverenzymes and blood pressure, and optionally heart rate.

For example, a ECG is performed before initiating administration withsaid S1P receptor modulator or agonist.

These parameters may also be checked throughout the treatment with saidS1P receptor modulator or agonist.

In a specific embodiment of the invention there is provided

-   1—a method for administering a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,    e.g. fingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or a    pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in a patient in need    thereof, comprising the steps of-   a.) identifying the eye diseases history of the patient to be    treated before commencing the treatment with said S1P receptor    modulator or agonist,-   b.) having ophthalmologic examinations performed as herein above    mentioned, e.g. 3 to 4 months after commencing the treatment with    said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, preferably by an    ophthalmologist, and optionally-   c.) having additional ophthalmologic examinations performed based on    patient symptoms, e.g. at intervals determined by the    ophthalmologist.-   2—A method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or    disorder (for example multiple sclerosis), and limiting the symptoms    associated thereof or reducing the severity of the disease, in a    patient in need thereof, comprising the steps a.), b.) and c.) as    defined above.-   3—a SW receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in a method for treating an inflammatory or an autoimmune    disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said method    comprises the steps a.), b.) and c.) as defined above.-   4—a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in the treatment of an inflammatory or an autoimmune disease    or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps a.), b.) and c.) as defined above.-   5—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in a method for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein    said treatment comprises the steps of    -   a′) identifying the eye diseases history of the patient to be        treated before commencing the treatment with FTY720, phosphate        derivative or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,-   a.) having ophthalmologic examinations performed as herein above    mentioned, e.g. 3 to 4 months after commencing the treatment with    FTY720, phosphate derivative or pharmaceutically acceptable salt    thereof, preferably by an ophthalmologist, and optionally-   b.) having additional ophthalmologic examinations performed based on    patient symptoms, e.g. at intervals determined by the    ophthalmologist.-   6—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps a′.), b′.) and c′.) as defined above.

In a specific embodiment of the invention there is provided

-   7—A method for administering a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,    e.g. fingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or a    pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in a patient in need    thereof, comprising the steps of    -   d) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in the        patient to be treated before the first administration of said        S1P receptor modulator or agonist, and administering the first        dose only if ALT level is not >2×ULN, and    -   e) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in the        patient under therapy, and discontinue the therapy in patients        experiencing jaundice or elevation of liver enzyme >5×ULN.-   8—A method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or    disorder (for example multiple sclerosis), and limiting the symptoms    associated thereof or reducing the severity of the disease, in a    patient in need thereof, comprising the steps d.), and e.) as    defined above.-   9—A S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in a method for treating an inflammatory or an autoimmune    disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said method    comprises the steps d.), and e.) as defined above.-   10—A S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in the treatment of an inflammatory or an autoimmune disease    or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps d.), and e.) as defined above.-   11—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in a method for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein    said method comprises the steps of    -   d′) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in        the patient to be treated before the first administration of        FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically        acceptable salt thereof, and administering the first dose only        if ALT level is not >2×ULN, and    -   e′) identifying the level of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, in        the patient under therapy, and discontinue the therapy in        patients experiencing jaundice or elevation of liver enzyme        >5×ULN-   12—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps d′.), and e′.) as defined above.

In yet another embodiment of the invention there is provided

-   13—A method for administering a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,    e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, in a patient in need thereof and receiving    concomitant beta-blocker therapy, comprising the steps of    -   f) measuring heart rate and/or blood pressure of the patient to        be treated before commencing the treatment with said S1P        receptor modulator or agonist,    -   g) either measuring heart rate every 3 to 5 hour, e.g. every        four hour, for at least 6 hour hereafter, and/or perform an ECG        3 to 6 hours, e.g. 4 to 6 hours, post-dose, and    -   h) administering an adequate treatment if        bradyarrhythmia-related symptom is seen under step g), e.g.        atropine or isoprenaline.

In one embodiment, that method refers to a method for administeringFTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, in a patientaffected by multiple sclerosis.

-   14—A method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or    disorder (for example multiple sclerosis), and limiting the symptoms    associated thereof or reducing the severity of the disease, in a    patient in need thereof, comprising the steps f.), g.) and h.) as    defined above.-   15—A S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in a method for treating an inflammatory or an autoimmune    disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said method    comprises the steps f.), g.) and h.) as defined above.-   16—A S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate    derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof,    for use in the treatment of an inflammatory or an autoimmune disease    or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps f.), g.) and h.) as defined above.-   17—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in a method for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein    said method comprises the steps of    -   f′) measuring heart rate and/or blood pressure of the patient to        be treated before commencing the treatment with FTY720, a        phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable        salt thereof,    -   g′) either measuring heart rate every 3 to 5 hour, e.g. every        four hour, for at least 6 hour hereafter, and/or perform an ECG        3 to 6 hours, e.g. 4 to 6 hours, post-dose, and    -   h′) administering an adequate treatment if        bradyarrhythmia-related symptom is seen under step g), e.g.        atropine or isoprenaline.-   18—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps off.), g′.) and h′.) as defined above.

In yet another embodiment of the invention there is provided

-   19—A method for administering a S1P receptor modulator or agonist,    e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, in a patient in need thereof, comprising    the steps of    -   i) observing the patient after the first dose administration for        an observing period as defined hereinabove, e.g. for at least 6        hours    -   j) measuring heart rate of the patient after this period,    -   k) either releasing the patient if the if the is >40 bpm, or of        40-60 bpm e.g. in case this value is not the lowest heart rate        measured during the 6-hour observation period; or maintaining        the patient in an appropriate setting.

Such a method is particularly adapted to patients with low resting heartrate (e.g. lower than 50) or those taking beta blockers, or having highgrade atrio-ventricular (AV) block or sick-sinus syndrome.

In a specific embodiment, that method refers to a method foradministering FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt ofFTY720, in a patient affected by multiple sclerosis.

The present invention also provides

-   20—FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, wherein said treatment    comprises the steps i.), j.) and k.) as defined above.-   21-FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically    acceptable salt thereof, e.g. the hydrochloride salt of FTY720, for    use in a method of treating multiple sclerosis, wherein said method    comprises the steps i.), j.) and k.) as defined above.

In specific cases, e.g. when patients experiencing symptomatic eventsassociated with braddyarrythmia not resolved by the end of the 6 hourobservation, day 2 dose may also be performed with an observation periodlike the first administration, e.g. as described above.

An observation period as defined hereinabove, e.g. 6 hour observation,may also be performed in case of a patient restarting the S1P receptormodulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, after a drug interruption ofmore than 4 days, e.g. more than 6 days, e.g. more than 8 days, e.g.more than 10 days, e.g. more than 12 days, e.g. more than 14 days, e.g.more than 18 days, e.g. more than 21 days.

In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method foradministering FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to a patient in need thereofwhile controlling, limiting or abolishing the possible adverse eventsassociated or in relation to such an administering, wherein the patientsat possible risk of showing such events are identified beforeadministering the drug and specific and regular monitoring of thetreated patients is performed, e.g. by an adequate physician.

The patients at possibly increased risk may be patients selected frompatients who have eyes diseases or disorders; patients who show a highALT level, patients who have hepatic dysfunction, patients who havehypertension; and patients who have heart failure or arrythmias. It mayalso concern patient affected by asthma, for example moderate asthmaand/or diabetic patients.

In another embodiment, it can be pregnant women.

As herein defined, an eyes disease or disorder refers to a disease ordisorder impacting eyes, e.g. uveitis, diabetes.

Patients who show a high ALT level refers to patients who show an ALTlevel of, or superior to, 2 times than ULN, e.g. before initiatingFTY720 treatment)

Patients who have heart disorders refers to one or more disordersselected from high-grade AV block, sick sinus syndrome, ischeamic heartdisease, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmia. For example, thisconcerns patients suffereing from or at risk of bradyarrhythmia,patients with high grade atrio-ventricular blocks or sick sinussyndrome, patients with a history of syncopal episodes, or patientsunder beta blockers or anti-arrhythmic treatment, such as patients underanti-arrhythmic drugs.

According to the invention, there is provided a specific monitoring ofpatients treated with a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720,a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, wherein said patients are suffering from an inflammatory or anautoimmune disease or disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, comprising anyones of the following steps of:

-   -   i) observation period, e.g. at least 6 hour, e.g. 4 to 6 hours,        during which or at the end of which heart rate is checked, as        defined herein,    -   ii) annual skin examination after first dose administration, as        defined herein,    -   iii) regular review of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, as defined        herein,    -   iv) ophthalmologic examinations 2 to 12 months, e.g. 3 to 4        months, after first dose administration, as defined herein,    -   v) regular checking of patient visual function, as defined        herein.

There is further provided method of administering a S1P receptormodulator or agonist, e.g. fingolimod in the form of FTY720, a phosphatederivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, topatients suffering from an Inflammatory or an autoimmune disease ordisorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, comprising

a) performing any ones of the following steps of:

-   -   i) observation period, e.g. at least 6 hour, e.g. 4 to 6 hours,        during which or at the end of which heart rate is checked, as        defined herein,    -   ii) annual skin examination after first dose administration, as        defined herein,    -   iii) regular review of liver enzyme, e.g. serum ALT, as defined        herein,    -   iv) ophthalmologic examinations 3 to 4 months after first dose        administration, as defined herein,    -   v) regular checking of patient visual function, as defined        herein; and        b) if required, interrupting fingolimod administration based        upon the results of one of more of the above steps or changing        the treatment regimen and/or administering a second drug.        Step b) may correspond to appearance of adverse events. The        second drug may be a drug which mitigates said possible adverse        events.

Interrupting fingolimod administration, changing the treatment regimenand/or administering a second drug, may occur in case of any of thefollowing conditions: bradycardia or atrioventricular conductionabnormalities, macular edema or other visual disturbance, skin cancer,altered liver functions or liver injury, infections or hypertension.Duration of the interruption is defined by the physician.

Interrupting fingolimod administration, changing the treatment regimenand/or administering a second drug, may also occur in case thelymphocyte count of the patient becomes abnormally low, or becomes lowerthan 200/mL.

For example, step a) may comprise one or more steps of

-   -   i) monitoring the heart rate of the patient,    -   ii) monitoring infections or infestations, e.g. viral        infections, and    -   iii) performing ophthalmologic examination within the first 1 to        10 after starting administration.

Therapeutic Dosages

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the methods for administeringFTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt thereof as defined herein above, in particular the methods fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, limiting thesymptoms associated thereof or the progression thereof, e.g. multiplesclerosis, in a patient in need thereof comprise administering a dailydosage of FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, e.g. FTY720 hydrochloride, of not more than 0.5mg, e.g. of about 0.5 mg.

According to the invention there is provided a compound selected fromfingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrochloride,for use in treating or preventing an inflammatory or autoimmune disease,whereby said compound is administered in such a way to a patient thatthe adverse events possibly associated with administration of saidcompound are controlled, limited, reduced or abolished. For example, thedaily dosage of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimodhydrocholoride, does not exceed 0.5 mg, e.g. is of about 0.5 mg.

In a specific embodiment of the invention there is provided a method fortreating multiple sclerosis, controlling or limiting the symptomsassociated thereof or reducing the severity of said disease in a patientin need thereof, comprising administering a daily dosage of fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrocholoride, wherein saiddaily dosage does not exceed 0.5 mg, e.g. is of about 0.5 mg, andwherein the patient is further affected by asthma (for example moderateasthma), by a disease or disorder impacting eyes or has an history ofeyes diseases or disorders (for example is affected by uveitis ordiabetes), show high-grade AV block, sick sinus syndrome, hepaticdysfunction or hypertension.

In a further embodiment of the invention there is provided a method fortreating multiple sclerosis, controlling or limiting the symptomsassociated thereof or reducing the severity of said disease in a patientin need thereof, comprising administering a daily dosage of fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrocholoride, wherein saiddaily dosage does not exceed 0.5 mg, e.g. is of about 0.5 mg, andwherein the patient is pregnant.

In yet a further embodiment of the invention there is provided a methodfor treating multiple sclerosis, limiting the symptoms associatedthereof or reducing the severity of said disease in a patient in needthereof, comprising administering a daily dosage of fingolimod (FTY720),a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrocholoride, wherein said daily dosage doesnot exceed 0.5 mg, e.g. is of about 0.5 mg, and wherein the patient is aMS patients who has never received treatment for MS, e.g. de novopatient.

According to the invention, adopting the treatment regimen may consistof decreasing the dosage, or increasing the time between two consecutiveadministrations of the S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g.fingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof. For example it may consist of administering0.25 mg of fingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, two times a day. It may alsoconsist of increasing stepwise the dosage of the drug during the firstperiod of administration up to a daily dosage of 0.5 mg or 1.25 mg, e.g.adopting a stepwise administration, e.g. a titration.

The present invention pertains to a method for treating multiplesclerosis comprising

-   -   (a) administering a varied dose of a drug selected from the        group consisting of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative        thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in a        patient in need thereof,    -   (b) monitoring adverse events occurring in said patient,    -   (c) monitoring reduction or abolition of symptoms associated        with multiple sclerosis, and    -   (d) determining optimal dose for said patient

The daily dose of the drug may be not exceeding 0.5 mg.

In another embodiment, the daily dose of the drug is above 0.5 mg, e.g.is about 1.00 mg, e.g. about 1.25 mg, e.g. about 1.5 mg.

There is also provided a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. FTY720,a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, for use in a method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmunedisease, e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein said method comprises

-   -   (a) administering a varied dose of said S1P receptor modulator        or agonist in a patient in need thereof,    -   (b) monitoring adverse events occurring in said patient,    -   (c) monitoring reduction or abolition of symptoms associated        with said inflammatory or autoimmune disease, and    -   (d) determining optimal dose for said patient.

This method is particularly adapted for FTY720, a phosphate derivativethereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. FTY720hydrochloride, for treating multiple sclerosis.

When the S1P receptor modulator or agonist is selected from FTY720, aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. is FTY720 hydrochloride, and the disease is multiplesclerosis, the daily dose of the drug may not be exceeding 0.5 mg.

In another embodiment, the S1P receptor modulator or agonist is selectedfrom FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, e.g. FTY720 hydrochloride, and the daily doseis exceeding 0.5 mg, e.g. is about 1.00 mg, e.g. about 1.25 mg, e.g.about 1.5 mg.

In yet a further embodiment of the invention, there is provided apersonalized method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune diseaseor disorder, e.g. multiple sclerosis, in a patient in need thereofcomprising administering to said patient a therapeutically effectiveamount of a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, wherein said methodcomprises

-   -   (a) administering a varied dose of said drug to the patient,    -   (b) monitoring adverse events occurring in said patient,    -   (c) monitoring reduction or abolition of symptoms associated        with multiple sclerosis, and    -   (d) determining optimal dose for said patient,        wherein said regimen is adapted for treating said disease or        disorder and controlling, reducing, or abolishing the possible        adverse events associated with administering said S1P receptor        modulator or agonist.

The steps (a) to (d) above may also be used in a method for determininga personalized therapeutic treatment regimen of a drug selected from thegroup consisting of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereofor a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in a patient sufferingfrom an inflammatory or autoimmune disease, e.g. multiple sclerosis.

The present invention also pertains a compound selected from FTY720, aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. FTY720 hydrochloride, for use in a method for treating aninflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder in a patient in needthereof, wherein said method is personalized, e.g. is adapted fortreating said disease or disorder to the specific profile of the patientin such a way that the adverse events associated with administering saidS1P receptor modulator or agonist are controlled, reduced, or abolished.In such a case, the patient to be treated my be selected from patientswho have never received treatment for that disease or disorder, patientssuffering or at risk of heart failure or arrythmias, patients affectedby asthma, patients who have eyes diseases or disorders, hepaticdysfunction or hypertension.

The present invention provides for a compound selected from FTY720, aphosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. FTY720 hydrochloride, for use in treating patientssuffering from an inflammatory or an autoimmune disease or disorder,e.g. multiple sclerosis, wherein the compound is administered throughthe administration pattern defined above.

The present invention also provides for a compound selected from FTY720,a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, e.g. FTY720 hydrochloride, for use in treating patientssuffering from an inflammatory or an or disorder disease, e.g. multiplesclerosis, wherein the compound is administered through the patientmonitoring defined above.

Combination

In another embodiment of the invention, the S1P receptor modulator, e.g.fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrochloride,is administered together with a second drug which mitigates the possibleadverse event associated with administration of fingolimod.

Such a second drug may be administered only in the event that an adverseevent, e.g. a side-effect, occurs or increases in intensity or frequencyto a level which is not acceptable anymore, e.g. as hereinabovedescribed.

The second drug may be selected from the group consisting of drugs whichtreat or prevent macular edema, anti-cancer agents (e.g.chemotherapeutic agents), anti-infection agents, anti-hypertensivedrugs, anti-bradychardia agents, and mixture thereof.

Examples of second drug include, but are not limited to, calcium channelblocker (e.g. diltiazem), atenolol, valsartan,

When the S1P receptor modulator or agonist of the invention, e.g.fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrochloride,is administered together with a second drug which mitigates the possibleadverse event associated with administration of fingolimod, the dailydosage of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist may be above 0.5 mg,e.g. may be about 1.00 mg, e.g. about 1.25 mg, e.g. about 1.5 mg.

For example there is provided a combination, e.g. a kit, containing aS11³ receptor modulator or agonist of the invention, e.g. fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, e.g. fingolimod hydrocholoride, and a seconddrug which is selected from the group consisting of anti-cancer agents,anti-infection agents, anti-microbial agents, anti-viral therapy, andanti-hypertensive drugs, whereby the dosage of said S1P receptormodulator or agonist is above 0.5 mg, e.g. is about 1.25 mg.

The invention also provides a specific dosage regimen of FTY720 fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, limiting thesymptoms associated thereof or the progression thereof, e.g. multiplesclerosis, in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering tosaid patient a daily dosage of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphatederivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, whichleads to a reduction of peripheral lymphocyte count of about 70 to 75%,e.g. of about 73%, 75% or 76%.

In another embodiment the invention provides a specific dosage regimenof FTY720 for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease ordisorder, limiting the symptoms associated thereof or the progressionthereof, e.g. multiple sclerosis, in a patient in need thereof,comprising administering to said patient a daily dosage of fingolimod(FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, which leads to a reduction of peripherallymphocyte count to a level low enough to obtain the therapeutic effecton the disease while controlling, limiting or abolishing the incidenceof infections. Preferably this daily dosage is not more than 0.5 mg offingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, e.g. of the hydrochloride saltthereof.

Utility of the dosage regimen of the invention in treating diseases andconditions as hereinabove specified may be demonstrated in standardanimal or clinical tests, e.g. in accordance with the methods describedhereinafter.

EXAMPLE 1 Study

Two different daily dosages of fingolimod (0.5 mg and 1.25 mg) have beenorally administered to patients with Relapsing-remitting MultipleSclerosis during 24-month 1292 patients with RRMS from 172 centers in 18countries are randomized to receive oral fingolimod, in a dose of 0.5mg/day or 1.25 mg/day, or interferon beta1-a 30 μg intramuscularly oncea week. Patients randomized to fingolimod receive placebo injectionsonce a week, and those randomized to interferon beta1-a receive aplacebo pill once a day.

The patients are seen clinically every month for 3 months and every 3months thereafter. The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) isperformed every 3 months, the MS Functional Composite (MSFC) every 6months, and MRI annually. Monitoring by ophthalmic examination,dermatologic examination, pulmonary function tests, chest X-ray and/orCT, Holter monitoring, and echocardiography are performed.

Participants who completed 1 year on treatment are offered an optionalextension phase. Those randomized to fingolimod continue on theirassigned dose, and those in the interferon beta1-a group are randomizedto the 2 fingolimod doses.

Results:

There are reduced relapses in both fingolimod groups compared withinterferon beta1-a. For the lower dose, there is a 52% reduction inrelapses vs interferon beta1-a, and a 38% reduction with the higherdose. Results in both fingolimod groups are highly statisticallysignificant vs interferon beta1-a, but not statistically different fromeach other.

Interferon Fingolimod Fingolimod End Point beta1-a 0.5 mg/day P 1.25mg/day P Annualized 0.33 0.16 <.0001 0.20 <.0001 relapse rate

The proportion of relapse-free patients is 83% with fingolimod vs 69% inthe interferon beta1-a group.

MRI lesion activity shows a reduction in both fingolimod groups in thenumber of new or newly enlarging T2 lesions and the number ofgadolinium-enhancing T1 lesions at month 12.

Observed adverse events include bradycardia and atrioventricular (AV)block, and infections, including 3 herpes viral infections.

Interferon Fingolimod Fingolimod Type beta1-a, n (%) 0.5 mg/d, n (%)1.25 mg/day, n (%) Basal-cell 1 (0.2) 3 (0.7) 2 (0.5) carcinomaSquamous-cell 1 (0.2) 0 0 carcinoma Malignant 0 3 (0.7) 0 melanomaBreast cancer 0 2 (0.5) 2 (0.5)

EXAMPLE 2 Study

Patients with moderate asthma are divided into 3 dosing cohorts of 12patients each. In each cohort, the 12 patients are randomized to FTY720(0.5 mg, 1.25 mg, and 2.5 mg in cohorts 1, 2, and 3 respectively) orplacebo in a 3:1 ratio resulting In 9 patients treated with FTY720 ateach dose level and 9 patients treated with placebo.

The study consists of a screening period of between 12 and 26 days,baseline and a 10 day treatment period followed by a study completionevaluation (performed 1-7 days after the last dose).

Two screening visits are performed, the initial Screening visit and asecond visit at Day −7 (+/−1 day). The initial screening visit (Visit 1)is used to start pulmonary function test (PFT) monitoring to assesseligibility for the study and to obtain relevant background informationand informed consent. The PFT is performed at a clock time similar tothe 6-hour post-dose timepoint on Day 1. On Day −7 a PFT is againperformed at the specified time. Short-acting β2 agonist use prior totreatment with study medication is also recorded in this 14 day period.

Patients return to the clinic one or 2 days prior to dosing for baselineassessments. PFT profiling is assessed at 7 time points during the visitand routine baseline evaluations are performed. On Day 1, patients arerandomized in a 3:1 ratio to FTY720 or placebo and PFT profiling isassessed at 8 time points (namely pre-dose, then at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and12 hours post-dose). PET assessments are also performed on Days 2, 3, 7(all single time points assessed at approximately the same clock time asthe 6 hours post-dose PFT on Day 1) and Day 10 (7 time points, namelypre-dose and then at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 hours post-dose). On each ofthe days when PFT assessments are performed, a reversibility testfollows the last PFT assessment of the day. Short-acting β2 agonist useis also recorded throughout the treatment period up to and including Day11 (24 hours post last dose).

Blood samples are collected on Day 1 at pre-dose and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8,12, 16, and 24 h post-dose, on Days 2, 3 and 7 at 6 hours post-dose andon Day 10 at pre-dose and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 h post-dose.

Safety assessments include physical examinations, ECGs, vital signs,spirometry assessments, standard clinical laboratory evaluations(hematology, blood chemistry, urinalysis), adverse event and seriousadverse event monitoring.

Only one half of each treatment cohort, a maximum of 6 patients, isallowed to start treatment on any given day for safety reasons. At least1 day (24 hours) separates the initial dosing of the first group ofpatients from the dosing of the second group (and at least 1 further dayseparates the second group from any subsequent groups required tocomplete each cohort).

The magnitude and time course of the effect of FTY720 on FEV1 and otherpulmonary function tests (FVC, FEF25-75%, and FEV1/FVC) is measured.

Results:

The magnitude of the bronchoconstriction is primarily assessed by thebaseline-adjusted FEV₁ AUC0-6h on Day 1. This primary PD variable isdefined as the ratio of the AUEC FEV₁ over the 6-hour PFT profile on Day1 divided by the same variable at baseline (Day −1).

This primary PD variable is analyzed on the log-scale by means of alinear model adjusted for the (log-transformed) baseline FEV₁ AUC0-6hand the treatment group as fixed effects. The geometric meanbaseline-adjusted FEV₁ AUC0-6h is obtained from the model for eachtreatment group; the geometric mean ratio between each FTY720 group andplacebo is also obtained along with its 95% Cl, and is back-transformedto obtain the geometric mean percent change from placebo and its 95% Cl.

Additional PD variables are calculated: baseline-adjusted FEV₁ AUC0-6hon Day 10 and baseline-adjusted FEV₁ Emax1-6h on Days 1 and 10. The Emaxvariables are defined as the ratio between Day 1 (or Day 10) and Day −1regarding the minimum from 6 assessments scheduled at 1 to 6 hours postdose. Those variables are defined for FEV₁ as well as for the other PFTparameters (FVC, FEF_(25-75%), and FEV₁/FVC) and are analyzed using thesame model as for the primary PD endpoint.

The time-course of the PFT parameters is explored on Day 1 over the12-hour profile and on Day 10 over the 6-hour profile. The percentchange from time-matched baseline in FEV₁, FVC, FEF_(25-75%), andFEV₁/FVC is summarized by means of descriptive statistics at eachvisit/time point. The log-transformed ratio from time-match baseline isanalyzed, separately at each post-baseline visit/time point, by means ofa linear model adjusted for the time-matched log-transformed baselinevalue and the treatment group as fixed effect. For each FTY720 group,the estimate for the mean treatment difference versus placebo and its95% CI are obtained from the model and are back-transformed to obtainthe geometric mean percent change from placebo and its 95% Cl. Noadjustment was made to the P values for multiple testing.

The results show that at a daily dosage of 0.5 mg FTY720 is safe andwell tolerated in patients with moderate asthma.

1. A method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease ordisorder in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to saidpatient a therapeutically effective amount of a S1P receptor modulatoror agonist, in such as way that the adverse events possibly associatedwith administering said S1P receptor modulator or agonist arecontrolled, limited, reduced or abolished, wherein said method comprisesthe steps of i) monitoring the patient during a specific period of timeafter the first administration of said S1P receptor modulator oragonist, wherein said patient monitoring comprises one or more steps ofa) monitoring infections or infestations, e.g. viral infections,throughout administering said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, b)performing an ophthalmologic examination, ii) optionally interruptingthe administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist and/ormodifying the treatment regimen thereof.
 2. A method of controlling,reducing, or abolishing the possible adverse events associated withtreating a patient suffering from an inflammatory or autoimmune diseaseor disorder with a S1P receptor modulator or agonist, comprisingadministering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of saidS1P receptor modulator or agonist, wherein said method comprises one ormore steps of a) monitoring infections or infestations, e.g. viralinfections, and b) performing an ophthalmologic examination, ii)optionally interrupting the administration of said S1P receptormodulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatment regimen thereof. 3.Method according to claim 1 wherein the patient monitoring furthercomprises a step of c) monitoring the heart rate of the patient at leastduring the first hours after the first administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist, e.g. the 1 to 10 hours after the firstadministration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist.
 4. Methodaccording to claim 3 further comprises a step of d) observing thepatient for the 1 to 10 hours after the first administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist to monitor the heart rate of the patient,e.g. during the first 6 hours.
 5. Method according to claim 1 whereinthe ophthalmologic examination is performed at least 3 to 4 months afterstarting administration.
 6. Method according to claim 1 wherein thepatient monitoring further comprises one or more of steps of performingliver function tests, performing dermatological examinations, performingpulmonary functions tests.
 7. A method for treating an inflammatory orautoimmune disease or disorder in a patient in need thereof, comprisingadministering to said patient a therapeutically effective amount of S1Preceptor modulator or agonist in such as way that the adverse eventspossibly associated with said S1P receptor modulator or agonist arecontrolled, limited, reduced or abolished, wherein said method comprisesi) checking specific parameters of the patient before initiating and/orduring administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, whereinsaid parameters comprise one or more of a) signs of infections orinfestations, e.g. viral infections, b) visual acuity c) liver enzymesd) blood pressure and ii) as necessary, interrupting the administrationof said S1P receptor modulator or agonist and/or modifying the treatmentregimen thereof.
 8. Method of claim 7 wherein signs of infections orinfestations are monitored throughout administering said S1P receptormodulator or agonist.
 9. Method of claim 7 wherein visual acuity ismonitored at initiating administration of said S1P receptor modulator oragonist or within the months preceding the first administration of saidS1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. within the 6 months precedingthe first administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist. 10.Method of claim 7 wherein visual acuity is monitored within the nextmonths following the first administration of said S1P receptor modulatoror agonist, e.g. within the 1 to 12 months following the firstadministration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist.
 11. Method ofclaim 7 wherein liver enzymes are monitored at initiating administrationof said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, and optionally throughoutadministering said S1P receptor modulator or agonist.
 12. Method ofclaim 7 further comprising checking the heart rate of the patient atinitiating administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist andoptionally within the 1 to 10 hours following the first administrationof said S1P receptor modulator or agonist.
 13. Method of claim 7 furthercomprising checking the respiratory function of the patient atinitiating administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonistand/or throughout administering said S1P receptor modulator or agonist.14. Method of claim 7 further comprising checking the presence ofdermatological disorders or skin cancer.
 15. Method according to claim 1wherein modifying the treatment regimen thereof consists of increasingor decreasing the daily dosage and/or increasing the period of timebetween two consecutives administrations.
 16. Method according to claim1 wherein the step ii) comprises administering a second drug whichmitigates said possible adverse events, for example administering asecond drug which is an anti-infection drug.
 17. Method according toclaim 1 wherein step ii) is performed in case the monitoring revealsinfections or an eyes disease.
 18. Method according to claim 1 whereinspecific parameters of the patient are checked before initiating saidS1P receptor modulator or agonist, said parameters being selected fromblood analysis (e.g. complete blood count), liver enzymes,ophthalmologic examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), pulmonary functionstests, dermatological examination, and liver function tests.
 19. Amethod according to claim 1 wherein step i) comprises one or more stepsof determining whether the patient is under beta blockers, shows restingbradycardia, high grade AV block or sick-sinus symptom.
 20. A methodaccording to claim 1 wherein the S1P receptor modulator or agonist isfingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
 21. A method according toclaim 20 wherein the S1P receptor modulator or agonist is administeredat a daily dosage not exceeding about 0.5 mg to the patient, e.g. ofabout 0.5 mg.
 22. A method according to claim 20 wherein the S1Preceptor modulator or agonist is administered at a daily dosageexceeding 0.5 mg to the patient, e.g. of 1.25 mg.
 23. A method ofcontrolling, reducing, limiting or abolishing the possible adverseevents associated with a treatment of a patient suffering from aninflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder, wherein said treatmentcomprises administering a daily dosage of a drug selected fromfingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, not exceeding about 0.5 mg tothe patient, such a method comprising monitoring the patient during aspecific period of time after the first administration of said drug, andif necessary either interrupting the administration of said drug, eithermodifying the treatment regimen thereof and/or administering a seconddrug which mitigates said possible adverse events, wherein saidmonitoring comprises one or more steps of a) monitoring infections orinfestations, e.g. viral infections, throughout drug administration, andb) performing an ophthalmologic examination after startingadministration.
 24. Method according to claim 20 wherein modifying thetreatment regimen consists of administering a daily dosage offingolimod, a phosphate derivative thereof or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, that is lower than 0.5 mg and then increasingthe dosage up to a daily dosage of about 0.5 mg, or increasing theperiod of time between two consecutive administrations thereof. 25.Method according to claim 20 wherein fingolimod, a phosphate derivativethereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is co-administeredwith a second drug which mitigates said possible adverse events, forexample with a second drug which is selected from the group consistingof anti-cancer agents, anti-infection agents and anti-hypertensivedrugs.
 26. A method for treating multiple sclerosis comprising (a)administering a varied dose of a drug selected from the group consistingof fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in a patient in need thereof,(b) monitoring adverse events occurring in said patient, (c) monitoringreduction or abolition of symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis,and (d) determining optimal dose for said patient, wherein the dailydose of the drug does not exceed 0.5 mg.
 27. A method for treatingmultiple sclerosis comprising (a) administering a varied dose of a drugselected from the group consisting of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphatederivative thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in apatient in need thereof, (b) monitoring adverse events occurring in saidpatient, (c) monitoring reduction or abolition of symptoms associatedwith multiple sclerosis, and (d) determining optimal dose for saidpatient, wherein the daily dosage of the drug exceeds 0.5 mg, e.g. isabout 1.25 mg.
 28. A method for determining a personalized therapeutictreatment regimen of a drug selected from the group consisting offingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in a patient suffering from aninflammatory or autoimmune disease, wherein said method comprises (a)administering a varied dose of said drug to the patient, (b) monitoringadverse events occurring in said patient, (c) monitoring reduction orabolition of symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, and (d)determining optimal dose for said patient, wherein said regimen isadapted for treating said disease or disorder and controlling, reducing,or abolishing the possible adverse events associated with administeringsaid S1P receptor modulator or agonist.
 29. A method of claim 26,wherein step (b) comprises one or more steps of i) monitoring infectionsor infestations, e.g. viral infections, ii) performing an ophthalmologicexamination, e.g. 3 to 4 months after starting drug administration. 30.Method according to claim 23 wherein the adverse events are selectedfrom bradycardia, atrioventricular conduction abnormalities, macularedema, skin cancer, altered liver functions, infections andhypertension.
 31. A method for treating an inflammatory or autoimmunedisease in a patient in need thereof and further suffering frombradyarrhytmia or at risk thereof, said method comprising administeringa therapeutically effective amount of a S1P receptor modulator oragonist, and comprising the steps of i) monitoring the patient during aspecific period of time after the first administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist, and ii) optionally interrupting theadministration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist and/ormodifying the treatment regimen thereof, wherein said patient monitoringcomprises the steps of a) monitoring infections or infestations, e.g.viral infections, throughout administering said S1P receptor modulatoror agonist, b) performing an ophthalmologic examination, c) monitoringthe heart rate of the patient at least during the first hours after thefirst administration of said S1P receptor modulator or agonist, e.g. the1 to 10 hours after the first administration of said S1P receptormodulator or agonist, and optionally d) observing the patient for the 1to 10 hours after the first administration of said S1P receptormodulator or agonist to monitor the heart rate of the patient, e.g.during the first 6 hours.
 32. Method of according to claim 1 wherein thepatient is vaccinated before initiating administration of said S1Preceptor modulator or agonist, e.g. vaccinated against viral infection.33. A combination containing a first drug which is selected from thegroup consisting of fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereofand a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a second drug whichis selected from the group consisting of drugs which treat or preventmacular edema, anti-cancer agent, anti infection agents andanti-hypertensive drugs, whereby the daily dosage of the first drug isnot exceeding about 0.5 mg.
 34. A kit containing daily units ofmedication of a first drug which is selected from the group consistingof fingolimod (FTY720), a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a second drug which isselected from the group consisting of anti-cancer agent, anti-infectionagents and anti-hypertensive drugs, whereby the daily dosage of thefirst drug is above 0.5 mg.
 35. A method, combination, or kit accordingto any preceding claim wherein the treatment is for a chronic long termdisease, e.g. for multiple sclerosis.
 36. S1P receptor modulator oragonist, e.g. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in a method fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease according to any one ofclaims 1 to
 32. 37. FTY720, a phosphate derivative thereof or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for use in a method fortreating an inflammatory or autoimmune disease according to claim 1,wherein said disease is multiple sclerosis, e.g. RRMS.
 38. A method ofany one of claim 27, wherein step (b) comprises one or more steps of i)monitoring infections or infestations, e.g. viral infections, ii)performing an ophthalmologic examination, e.g. 3 to 4 months afterstarting drug administration.
 39. A method of claim 28, wherein step (b)comprises one or more steps of i) monitoring infections or infestations,e.g. viral infections, ii) performing an ophthalmologic examination,e.g. 3 to 4 months after starting drug administration.